New look for Old Grey Whistle Test

Vintage music show The Old Grey Whistle Test is being given a high-tech revamp for online viewers, it was announced today.

Performances from the classic show, as well as reports from BBC2’s Top Gear motoring programme, will be available for a new broadband subscription service by Internet firm RealNetworks.

It is the first time BBC Worldwide, the broadcasting corporation’s marketing arm, has allowed its programmes to be available on demand for such a service.

The new subscription service, RealOne SuperPass, will allow users to tap into 35 classic performances from the Whistle Test archives to see acts such as Captain Beefheart, Bruce Springsteen, Blondie and early U2.

Broadband connections allow better quality video to be delivered online more quickly.

Other companies including MTV are also allowing material to be used for the service.

Jonathan Crane, director for commercial broadband at BBC Worldwide, said: ‘‘As the world goes broadband, viewers will insist on the high quality, video-rich content that BBC is poised to deliver. This high-end programming will enhance the service Real provides.’’